JERUSALEM (CNN) - U.S. envoy George Mitchell was in Israel on Thursday for his first visit since right-wing politician Benjamin Netanyahu became prime minister.

It is Mitchell's third visit to the region since President Obama appointed him as special envoy for Middle East peace.

Mitchell plans to meet with Netanyahu and other Israeli politicians Thursday, as well as Palestinian leaders - including President Mahmoud Abbas - in the West Bank and Jerusalem on Friday.

The former senator and seasoned diplomat has not been shy in articulating the U.S. desire to see a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has led to speculation that the new Israeli government and the Obama administration may find themselves on a collision course.

soundoff(3 Responses)

Good luck Mr. Mitchell. This has been and will always be an uphill battle.

April 16, 2009 10:27 am at 10:27 am |

LIP

Mitchell can join the long list of envoys that have pressed Israel for a two state solution. Take notice that none of them have been successful. It requires two parties in total agreement and now that you have three parties, to now include Hamas, that dog ain't going to hunt. Hamas will be the trip wire that continues to prolong this never ending event. Our Great great grandkids will be hearing about the latest envoy to try to do the very same thing in the distant future.